Germantown unveils 2050 plan for housing development and community growth

The Joint Review Board meeting held on April 2, 2025, in Germantown, Wisconsin, focused on the progress and future steps of the 02/1950 plan, a comprehensive initiative aimed at enhancing the village's housing, business growth, and land use. The meeting began with an overview of the plan's objectives, which include expanding housing opportunities, fostering local business development, and creating a cohesive land use strategy that balances development with the preservation of natural resources.

Key discussions highlighted the strong demand for multifamily housing in Germantown, driven by population growth and changing housing needs. Current multifamily developments in the area report occupancy rates above 95%, indicating a pressing need for over a thousand additional units in the next five years. The 02/1950 plan emphasizes the importance of diverse housing options to cater to residents at various life stages and income levels.

The meeting also addressed the identification of key development parcels within a designated catalytic opportunity zone, which aims to attract qualified developers aligned with community desires. Significant due diligence has been conducted to ensure that proposed developments meet the village's long-term vision while addressing potential future uses.

A major focus of the meeting was the discussion of Tax Increment District (TID) 10, a financial tool intended to support the project. John from Ehlers provided insights into the timeline for creating the TID, noting that the project plan began in February, with notices sent to property owners in early March. The village board is expected to review the resolution to create the TID on April 21, 2025.

Community engagement has been a cornerstone of the planning process, with multiple visioning sessions held to gather resident input on desired development principles. The conceptual framework developed from these sessions aims to create a vibrant community hub, particularly around the intersection of Mequon Road and Pilgrim Road, which is envisioned as a key gateway for Germantown.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue aligning the village's short-term and long-term goals, ensuring that the development process remains adaptable and responsive to community needs. The next steps include further discussions on the planned development district and the ongoing collaboration with property owners and stakeholders to bring the vision of the 02/1950 plan to fruition.